In a small salon in rural Eastern Uganda, Fiona spends hours on her feet braiding and styling hair. Her hands move swiftly with practiced rhythm, and she pauses on occasion to ensure her client is comfortable. Nothing makes Fiona happier than a satisfied client. For her, hairdressing isn’t just about a new style; it’s a way to help people feel confident and take pride in who they are.

If you walk through Kibwezi’s market in Makueni County, Kenya, you will spot a shop with neat stacks of electronics and household products. The hand-painted sign above reads Angela’s Comeback Electronics & Malimali. For 25-year-old Angela and her three-year-old daughter, the shop is more than a business. It’s a pathway to greater stability and a means to move forward on her own terms.

Africa’s youth are ambitious, full of untapped potential, and chasing big dreams. All it takes is just one person to help them on the path to success. As a Trainer in Educate!’s livelihood bootcamps designed for youth who are out of school, I’m grateful to offer that support.

Peer-to-peer mentorship bridges the gap between learning and practical application whether within the education system or through out-of-school youth bootcamps.

Localization means adapting to suit local realities. Our bootcamps are uniquely tailored to address the differing challenges and opportunities present in each community. Educate! conducts thorough research to understand the diverse youth needs, obstacles and economic landscape of the area. This in-depth understanding allows us to more effectively meet the specific needs of youth.